Systematic Theology Study Guide

Sola Scriptura

Scripture alone

Textual Criticism

Science of reconstructing the original text of the Scriptures based upon the available manuscript evidence.

Canon

Measuring rod for understanding which books belong in the Bible

Apocrypha

Hidden literature, not inspired

Psuedopogrypha

Books falsely attributed to an author

4 Reasons the Apocrypha doesn't belong in Scripture

It teaches prayer to the dead, directly contradicts itself, teaches an individual he or she has to work for salvation, teaches the doctrine of purgatory, and teaches that money can wash away sin

Revelation

The act whereby God reveals truth to mankind through both special and general revelation

2 kinds of revelation

Special and General Revelation

General Revelation

God making himself known through creation and human consciousness, does not save an individual

Verses for General Revelation

Psalm 19:1-6, Romans 1:18-21, Romans 2:14-16

Special Revelation

God making himself known through Jesus, can lead to salvation

Mechanical Dictation

God simply used hand of man to passively write His words (100% God)

Inspiration

God guided the writers of Scripture, giving them his words while fully utilizing the human element within man to produce Scriptures.

Verses for inspiration

2 Timothy 3:16-17, 2 Peter 1:19-21

Inerrancy

Scriptures in the autographa are true in all that they do and are without error.

Verses for Inerrancy

Numbers 23:19, Titus 1:2, Hebrews 6:18, 2 Samuel 7:28, John 17:17

Infallibility

Scriptures cannot fail in the matters of history, science, faith, and practice

Verses for Infallibility

Psalm 19:7, Proverbs 30:5, Psalm 12:6

Illumination

The act whereby God enlightens believers to understand his revelation and its importance to their lives

Verses for Illumination

Psalm 119:130, Psalm 119:18, Psalm 119: 73